Connecting member for connecting carrier tapes and carrier tape connecting method using this connecting

ABSTRACT

A connecting member, used for serially connecting two carrier tapes, comprises a base film, a belt-like reference band substantially fixed on the base film, a bonding tape adhering on the base film, and a cover film covering the bonding tape. A straight reference face is provided on a longitudinal side of the reference band closely to the bonding tape.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates to a connecting member for connectingcarrier tapes used in a parts mounting apparatus, and also relates to acarrier tape connecting method using this connecting member.

[0002] In a parts mounting apparatus, parts are carried on a carriertape extending from a reel and conveyed one after another to the partsmounting apparatus. When arrived at the parts mounting apparatus, partsare mounted on corresponding substrates successively. The carrier tapecan carry numerous parts serially arrayed in the longitudinal directionand is preferably used to continuously feed many parts to the partsmounting apparatus. The productivity of the parts mounting apparatus canbe improved.

[0003] However, during an operation of the parts mounting apparatus, aworker is required to connect a succeeding carrier tape to a precedingcarrier tape every time when a trailing edge of the preceding carriertape approaches the parts mounting apparatus. This assures thecontinuous supply of parts to the mounting apparatus for a long timewithout interrupting the operation of the mounting apparatus. Morespecifically, the worker needs to connect a leading edge of thesucceeding carrier tape to the trailing edge of the preceding carriertape. In connecting two carrier tapes, the worker usually positions theleading edge of the succeeding carrier tape so as to follow after thetrailing edge of the preceding carrier tape. Then, the worker fixedlyconnects the serially arrayed carrier tapes with a bonding tape.However, according to this connecting method, workability is very bad.For example, in the beginning, the worker's left hand holds the trailingedge of the preceding carrier tape and the worker's right hand puts anend of a bonding tape on the trailing edge of the preceding carriertape. In the next moment, the worker's right hand holds the leading edgeof the succeeding carrier tape and positions it so as to follow afterthe trailing edge of the preceding carrier tape, while the worker's lefthand holds the one end of bonding tape together with the trailing edgeof the preceding carrier tape. Then, the worker spreads the bonding tapeso as to span from the trailing edge of the preceding carrier tape tothe leading edge of the succeeding carrier tape, thereby seriallyconnecting two carrier tapes.

[0004] However, the above-described conventional connecting method isnot easy for the workers if not well trained because of the difficultyin connecting two carrier tapes without causing any dislocation orinclination at their connecting portion.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In view of the foregoing problems, the present invention has anobject to provide a technique for easily connecting two carrier tapes attheir trailing and leading edges.

[0006] To accomplish the above and other related objects, the presentinvention provides a connecting member used for serially connecting twocarrier tapes, comprising a base film, a belt-like reference bandsubstantially fixed on the base film, a bonding tape adhering on thebase film, and a cover film covering the bonding tape, wherein astraight reference face is provided on a longitudinal side of thereference band closely to the bonding tape. According to the connectingmember of this invention, a worker can align a first carrier tape and asecond carrier tape serially along the reference face of the referenceband, and connects leading and trailing edges of the first and secondcarrier tapes with the bonding tape. Thus, it becomes possible to easilyperform the connecting operation without causing any dislocation orinclination between the first and second carrier tapes.

[0007] According to a preferable embodiment of the present invention,the base film is configured into a rectangular shape, and the referenceband is positioned in parallel with one side of the base film. Thisarrangement facilitates the manufacturing of connecting members becauseeach connecting member can be easily obtained by cutting band-likeunited materials at predetermined intervals.

[0008] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the color of the reference band is different from that of the base film.This makes it easy to clearly discriminate the reference band from thebase film. The worker can easily align the first and second carriertapes along the reference face of the reference band. The connectingoperation can be simplified.

[0009] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the base film is transparent. Using the transparent base film iseffective in visually confirming the connecting condition betweenleading and trailing edges of the first and second carrier tapes orvisually confirming the bonding condition between these carrier tapesand bonding tapes. Thus, the worker can surely and correctly connect thefirst and second carrier tapes.

[0010] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the color of the reference band is selected from the group consisting ofblack, red, blue, yellow, green, and white. This brings an effect offacilitating the connecting operation.

[0011] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the reference band is thicker than the cover film. The position of thereference band can be immediately recognized when the worker holds theconnecting member. Thus, the worker can easily grip the reference bandand smoothly peel off the cover film. The workability can be improved.

[0012] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,a plurality of feed hole marks are provided between the reference bandand the bonding tape on the base film, and the feed hole marks arearrayed at predetermined intervals so as to agree with feed holes ofeach carrier tape. The worker can accurately connect the first andsecond carrier tapes by adjusting the feed holes thereof at theconnecting portion.

[0013] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,an edge mark is provided at a longitudinal center of the base film toindicate a portion corresponding to a cut face of each carrier tape. Theworker can easily perform the connecting operation of the first andsecond carrier tapes with reference to this edge mark. Namely, theworker can easily identify a correct position (i.e., the longitudinalcenter of the base film) for connecting the first and second carriertapes. The connecting operation can be performed adequately.

[0014] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,a folding line is provided between two bonding tapes on the base film,and the folding line is parallel to the reference face of the referenceband. With this embodiment, it becomes possible to connect the uppersurfaces of the first and second carrier tapes with a second bondingtape by folding the base film along the folding line under a conditionwhere the bottom surfaces of the first and second carrier tapes areconnected with a first bonding tape. Namely, it becomes possible tofirmly connect the first and second carrier tapes with two bonding tapedadhering on the upper and lower surfaces thereof.

[0015] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the base film is configured into a rectangular shape, and a distancefrom the folding line to the reference face of reference band locatednear one side of the base film is longer than a distance from thefolding line to an opposite side of the base film. According to thisarrangement, when the base film is folded along the folding line, thefolded part of the base film does not overlap with the reference band.Thus, the worker can firmly depress the second bonding tape to the firstand second carrier tapes, thereby ensuring the bonding of the secondbonding tape to the first and second carrier tapes.

[0016] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,a predetermined gap is provided between the reference band and one sideof the base film. According to this arrangement, the gap gives amarginal space for allowing excessive adhesive to leak from theunderneath of the reference band without overflowing the base film whenthe reference band is bonded on the upper surface of the base film.Thus, the worker can apply a sufficient amount of adhesive onto thedesignated surface area of the base film beforehand without hesitatingfailure in application of adhesive. Bonding of the reference band to thebase film can be ensured.

[0017] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the cove film overhangs from an opposite side of the base film far fromthe reference band. This allows the worker to pick the protruding edgeof the cover film so that the cover film can be easily peeled off thebase film.

[0018] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the base film and the bonding tape have the same size in a longitudinaldirection of the reference band. This arrangement facilitates themanufacturing of connecting members because each connecting member canbe easily obtained by cutting band-like united materials atpredetermined intervals.

[0019] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the base film and the reference band have the same size in alongitudinal direction of the reference band. This arrangementfacilitates the manufacturing of connecting members because eachconnecting member can be easily obtained by cutting band-like unitedmaterials at predetermined intervals.

[0020] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the base film has a size not shorter than 20 mm in a longitudinaldirection of the reference band. The base film having a longitudinalsize not shorter than 20 mm allows the worker to securely hold the basefilm and the first and second carrier tapes firmly by right and lefthands. Workability in connecting two carrier tapes can be improved.

[0021] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the bonding tape has a size not longer than 80 mm in a longitudinaldirection of the reference band. Restricting a longitudinal size of thebonding tape is effective to facilitate the connecting operation. If thelength of the boding tape is excessively long, the worker will feeldifficulty in correctly connecting the terminal edge of the firstcarrier tape to the leading edge of the second carrier tape. However, 80mm or less is an adequate length for the worker to hold two carriertapes straight at the connecting portion during the connectingoperation. The connecting operation can be stabilized.

[0022] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,a plurality of carrying holes are provided on the carrier tape foraccommodating parts, a top tape covers the carrying holes, and atransverse width of the bonding tape is narrower than that of the toptape. When the trailing edge of the first carrier tape is connected tothe leading edge of the second carrier tape, the bonding tape is notbonded to a region other than the top tape. Thus, the worker cansmoothly peel off the top tape when the parts are fed to a part mountingapparatus.

[0023] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the transverse width of the bonding tape is not larger than 90% of thetransverse width of the top tape. This makes it possible to surelyprevent the bonding tape from adhering on a region other than the toptape even when the carrier tape and its top tape are deformed in azigzag fashion with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0024] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the color of the bonding tape is different from that of the carrier tapeor its top tape. The worker can easily find the connecting portion afterthe carrier tapes are connected.

[0025] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the bonding tape is semitransparent. This makes it possible for theworker to easily find the connecting portion after the carrier tapes areconnected and also to surely confirm the presence of each partaccommodated in a carrying hole.

[0026] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the bonding tape is transparent. The worker can surely confirm thepresence of each part accommodated in a carrying hole.

[0027] The present invention provides a first carrier tape connectingmethod using the connecting member of the present invention, comprisinga step of peeling the cover film off the base film, a step ofpositioning an edge portion of a first carrier tape on the base film insuch a manner that the first carrier tape is brought into contact withthe reference band along the reference face, a step of bonding the edgeportion of the first carrier tape to the bonding tape, a step ofpositioning an edge portion of a second carrier tape on the base film insuch a manner that the second carrier tape is brought into contact withthe reference band along the reference face and is also brought intocontact with the first carrier tape along their edge portions, a step ofbonding the edge portion of the second carrier tape to the bonding tape,and a step of removing an assembly of the first and second carrier tapesserially connected by the bonding tape from the base film. The firstcarrier tape connecting method of the present invention makes itpossible to adequately connect the trailing edge of the first carriertape to the leading edge of the second carrier tape.

[0028] The present invention provides a second carrier tape connectingmethod using the connecting member of the present invention, comprisinga step of peeling the cover film off the base film, a step ofpositioning an edge portion of a first carrier tape on the base film insuch a manner that the first carrier tape is brought into contact withthe reference band along the reference face and also the position offeed holes of the first carrier tape agrees with the feed hole marks ofthe base film, a step of bonding the edge portion of the first carriertape to the bonding tape, a step of positioning an edge portion of asecond carrier tape on the base film in such a manner that the secondcarrier tape is brought into contact with the reference band along thereference face and is also brought into contact with the first carriertape along their edge portions, a step of bonding the edge portion ofthe second carrier tape to the bonding tape, and a step of removing anassembly of the first and second carrier tapes serially connected by thebonding tape from the base film. The second carrier tape connectingmethod of the present invention makes it possible to adequately connectthe trailing edge of the first carrier tape to the leading edge of thesecond carrier tape.

[0029] The present invention provides a third carrier tape connectingmethod using the connecting member of the present invention, comprisinga step of peeling the cover film off the base film, a step ofpositioning an edge portion of a first carrier tape on the base film insuch a manner that the first carrier tape is brought into contact withthe reference band along the reference face and also the position of theedge portion of the first carrier tape agrees with the edge mark of thebase film, a step of bonding the edge portion of the first carrier tapeto the bonding tape, a step of positioning an edge portion of a secondcarrier tape on the base film in such a manner that the second carriertape is brought into contact with the reference band along the referenceface and is also brought into contact with the first carrier tape alongtheir edge portions, a step of bonding the edge portion of the secondcarrier tape to the bonding tape, and a step of removing an assembly ofthe first and second carrier tapes serially connected by the bondingtape from the base film. The third carrier tape connecting method of thepresent invention makes it possible to adequately connect the trailingedge of the first carrier tape to the leading edge of the second carriertape.

[0030] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,each of the first and second carrier tapes has a plurality of carryingholes for accommodating parts and a top tape covering the carryingholes, and the edge portions of the first and second carrier tapes areconnected to the bonding tape via the top tape. The worker cancontinuously and steadily peel off the top tape at the connectingportion of the first and second carrier tapes. Parts supply to themounting apparatus becomes stable.

[0031] The present invention provides a fourth carrier tape connectingmethod using the connecting member of the present invention, comprisinga step of peeling the cover film off the base film, a step ofpositioning an edge portion of a first carrier tape on the base film insuch a manner that the first carrier tape is brought into contact withthe reference band along the reference face, a step of bonding onesurface of the edge portion of the first carrier tape to a first bondingtape located between the folding line and the reference band, a step ofpositioning an edge portion of a second carrier tape on the base film insuch a manner that the second carrier tape is brought into contact withthe reference band along the reference face and is also brought intocontact with the first carrier tape along their edge portions, a step ofbonding one surface of the edge portion of the second carrier tape tothe first bonding tape, a step of folding the base film along thefolding line so that a second bonding tape located between the foldingline and the other end of the base film is adhered on opposite surfacesof the edge portions of the first and second carrier tapes, and a stepof removing an assembly of the first and second carrier tapes seriallyconnected by the first and second bonding tapes from the base film. Thefourth carrier tape connecting method of the present invention makes itpossible to adequately connect the trailing edge of the first carriertape to the leading edge of the second carrier tape.

[0032] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,each of the first and second carrier tapes has a plurality of carryingholes for accommodating parts and a top tape covering the carryingholes, and the edge portions of the first and second carrier tapes arefirst connected to the first bonding tape via the top tape and thenconnected to the second bonding tape. During the connecting operation,after the carrier tapes are positioned, the worker can first connect thecarrier tapes at the surface on which the top tape is provided. Thus,the connection of the top tape can be accurately performed. Firm andreliable connection is assured by connecting the carrier tapes at bothof opposite surfaces.

[0033] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the edge portions of the first and second carrier tapes are cutbeforehand into convex and concave shapes just fitting to each otherbefore the edge portions of the first and second carrier tapes areconnected with the connecting member. As the edge portions of the firstand second carrier tapes are configured into mutually mating convex andconcave shapes, the worker can easily connect the first and secondcarrier tapes at their connecting portion without causing anydislocation or inclination.

[0034] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the edge portions of the first and second carrier tapes are cut intowavy shapes just fitting to each other before the edge portions of thefirst and second carrier tapes are connected with the connecting member.As the edge portions of the first and second carrier tapes areconfigured into mutually mating wavy shapes, the worker can easilyconnect the first and second carrier tapes at their connecting portionwithout causing any dislocation or inclination.

[0035] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the edge portions of the first and second carrier tapes are cut with acutting tool having cutting blades corresponding to the convex andconcave shapes or the wavy shapes. Using such a cutting tool makes itpossible to improve the workability in cutting the first and secondcarrier tapes into the convex and concave shapes or into the wavyshapes.

[0036] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,positioning pins, engageable with the feed holes of the carrier tapes,are provided on one cutting blade of the cutting tool. This arrangementmakes it possible to stabilize the cutting position with respect to thefeed holes of the first and second carrier tapes. No feed hole pitchdislocation is caused at the connecting portion of the first and secondcarrier tapes.

[0037] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,each of the first and second carrier tapes has a plurality of carryingholes for accommodating parts and a top tape covering the carryingholes, and the top tape is cut into convex and concave shapes or intowavy shapes at the edge portions of the carrier tapes. This effectivelyprevents a very thin top tape from wrinkling or breaking at its cutedge. The connecting operation of the carrier tapes can be stabilized.

[0038] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the top tape provided on a leading edge of a downstream carrier tape iscut into a convex or mount shape protruding toward a trailing edge of anupstream carrier tape. This arrangement makes it possible for the workerto smoothly peel the top tape.

[0039] According to the preferable embodiment of the present invention,the convex or mount shape has a pinnacle at substantially the center ofthe top tape provided on the leading edge of the downstream carriertape. As the center region of the top tape is not adhered on the basefilm of the carrier tape, the worker can easily pull up the centerregion and can smoothly start peeling off the top tape.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] The above and other objects, features and advantages of thepresent invention will become more apparent from the following detaileddescription which is to be read in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, in which:

[0041]FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing first and second carriertapes to be connected by a connecting member in accordance with apreferable embodiment of the present invention;

[0042]FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a cutting tool used in theconnecting operation of carrier tapes in accordance with the preferableembodiment of the present invention;

[0043]FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a cutting operation ofcarrier tapes in accordance with the preferable embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0044]FIG. 4A is a perspective view showing a separated condition of thefirst and second carrier tapes obtained through the cutting operation ofcarrier tapes in accordance with the preferable embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0045]FIG. 4B is a perspective view showing a connected condition of thefirst and second carrier tapes obtained through the cutting operation ofcarrier tapes in accordance with the preferable embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0046]FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a connecting member inaccordance with the preferable embodiment of the present invention;

[0047]FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the connecting member in accordancewith the preferable embodiment of the present invention;

[0048]FIG. 7 is a side view showing the connecting member in accordancewith the preferable embodiment of the present invention;

[0049]FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing the connectingmember in accordance with the preferable embodiment of the presentinvention;

[0050]FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the connecting member in anearlier stage of a carrier tape connecting method in accordance with thepreferable embodiment of the present invention;

[0051]FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the connecting member in asucceeding stage of the carrier tape connecting method in accordancewith the preferable embodiment of the present invention;

[0052]FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the connecting member inanother succeeding stage of the carrier tape connecting method inaccordance with the preferable embodiment of the present invention;

[0053]FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing the connecting member inanother succeeding stage of the carrier tape connecting method inaccordance with the preferable embodiment of the present invention;

[0054]FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the connecting member inanother succeeding stage of the carrier tape connecting method inaccordance with the preferable embodiment of the present invention;

[0055]FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the connecting member inanother succeeding stage of the carrier tape connecting method inaccordance with the preferable embodiment of the present invention;

[0056]FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the connecting member inanother succeeding stage of the carrier tape connecting method inaccordance with the preferable embodiment of the present invention;

[0057]FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing the connecting member inanother succeeding stage of the carrier tape connecting method inaccordance with the preferable embodiment of the present invention;

[0058]FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing an emboss type carrier tapein accordance with the preferable embodiment of the present invention;

[0059]FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing the connecting member in onestage of a carrier tape connecting method for connecting the carriertape shown in FIG. 17 in accordance with the preferable embodiment ofthe present invention; and

[0060]FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing a modified connecting memberin accordance with the preferable embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0061] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention willbe explained with reference to attached drawings.

[0062]FIG. 1 shows a first carrier tape 1 whose trailing edge appearsduring a mounting operation of parts performed by feeding the firstcarrier tape 1 to a parts mounting apparatus. A second carrier tape 2 iswound in a reel 3. When connected to the trailing edge of the firstcarrier tape 1, a leading edge of the second carrier tape 2 followsafter the first carrier tape 1 and advances together with the firstcarrier tape 1 toward the parts mounting apparatus. Namely, the firstcarrier tape 1 is positioned at the upstream side on a tape feedingpath, while the second carrier tape 2 is positioned at the downstreamside. Details of a connecting operation of the first carrier tape 1 andthe second carrier tape 2 will be described later. The following shouldbe explained beforehand based on FIG. 1.

[0063] Each of the first carrier tape 1 and the second carrier tape 2,referred to as a square hole punch carrier type taping, includes a whiteor black base film 4 that is made of paper or plastic and provided witha plurality of carrying holes 5 successively provided at predeterminedintervals thereon. Each carrying hole 5 is configured into a squareshape for accommodating a part 6. A top tape 7, having an extremely thinwidth of 50 μm to 80 μm, covers the successively arranged carrying holes5 so as to provide a flattened surface on the first carrier tape 1. Thetop tape 7, made of a transparent polyester, has both ends extending inthe longitudinal direction thereof and adhered onto the base film 4 byappropriate adhesive.

[0064] A plurality of feed holes 8, successively arrayed atpredetermined intervals, are provided on the base film 4 and not coveredby the top tape 7. The bottom of each carrying hole 5 is closed. Whenthe parts 6 carried on these carrier tapes 1 and 2 are supplied to theparts mounting apparatus, a worker or operator peels the top tape 7 offthe base film 4 beforehand. Then, the naked parts 6, accommodated in thecarrying holes 5, are successively supplied to the parts mountingapparatus.

[0065] Hereinafter, the operation for connecting the trailing edge ofthe first carrier tape 1 to the leading edge of the second carrier tape2 will be explained with reference to FIG. 2 and the following drawings.

[0066]FIG. 2 shows a cutting tool 9, such as scissors, with wavy cuttingblades 10 and 11 used for cutting the edges of the first carrier tape 1and the second carrier tape 2. A base 12, with positioning pins 13provided on an upper surface thereof, is attached to a side face of onecutting blade 10. Two positioning pins 13, serving as engagingprojections, are spaced at a predetermined pitch identical with thepitch of the feed holes 8 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the feedholes 8 of the first carrier tape 1 and the second carrier tape 2 engagewith the positioning pins 13 so that the first carrier tape 1 isoverlapped on the second carrier tape 2 or vice versa. Under thiscondition, the overlapped carrier tapes 1 and 2 are cut by the cuttingblades 10 and 11. In this case, the trailing edge of the first carriertape 1 is directed toward an arrow shown in FIG. 3. On the contrary, theleading edge of the second carrier tape 2 is directed to the oppositedirection.

[0067] In this manner, using the wavy cutting blades 10 and 11 of thecutting tool 9 improves the workability of the cutting operation of thecarrier tapes 1 and 2. Furthermore, the engaging projections of thecutting 9 securely fix the first carrier tape 1 and the second carriertape 2 during the cutting operation. The cut position of respectivecarrier tapes 1 and 2 is always constant with respect to the feed holes8. This makes it possible to prevent the feed holes 8 of the first andsecond carrier tapes 1 and 2 from dislocating from each other in thelater-described connecting operation.

[0068]FIGS. 4A and 4B shows the cut edges of the first and secondcarrier tapes 1 and 2. The cut shape of the trailing and leading edgesof first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2 is identical with the wavyshape of the cutting tool 9. As described above, each position of thefirst and second carrier tapes 1 and 2 is accurately regulated by thepositioning pins 13. Furthermore, the cutting direction is fixed withrespect to each of the first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2. Thus, asshown in FIG. 4A, the trailing edge of first carrier tape 1 and theleading edge of second carrier tape 2 have the same cut shape.Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4B, the first carrier tape 1 completelymatch with the second carrier tape 2 when assembled along the cut edgesthereof. In other words, no dislocation is present between the first andsecond carrier tapes 1 and 3 in a direction normal to their longitudinaldirections.

[0069] FIGS. 5 to 8 show a connecting member 14 that is used forconnecting the trailing edge of first carrier tape 1 and the leadingedge of second carrier tape 2 after finishing the above-describedcutting operation. The connecting member 14, as specifically shown inFIG. 8, comprises a rectangular base film 15, a reference band 16, afirst bonding tape 17, a second bonding tape 18, and a cover film 19.The base film 15 is 40 mm in the longitudinal direction and 26 mm in adirection normal to the longitudinal direction. The reference band 16extends in the longitudinal direction along one side of the base film15. The first bonding tape 17 is parallel to the reference band 16 witha predetermined clearance provided therebetween. The second bonding tape18 is parallel to the first bonding tape 17 with a predeterminedclearance provided therebetween. The cover film 19 covers both of thefirst bonding tape 17 and the second bonding tape 18.

[0070] The bonding tapes 17 and 18 are adhered on an upper surface ofthe base film 15 via a weak adhesive layer coated on the upper surfaceof base film 15. Each of the bonding tapes 17 and 18 has an uppersurface serving as a strong adhesive layer. The cover film 19 has alower surface, facing to the bonding tapes 17 and 18, that is finishedas an easily removable surface. The reference band 16 is fixed to theupper surface of base film 15 via a strong adhesive layer. The referenceband 16 has a reference face 16 a extending straight along itslongitudinal side closely to the first bonding tape 17. A plurality offeed hole marks 21, arrayed at predetermined intervals, are providedbetween the reference band 16 and the first bonding tape 17 on the basefilm 15. The interval (or pitch) of feed hole marks 21 is identical withthat of the feed holes 8 of first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2.Furthermore, a folding line 20 is provided between the first bondingtape 17 and the second bonding tape 18 on the base film 15. The foldingline 20 is parallel to the reference face 16 a of the reference band 16.

[0071] First, to connect the first carrier tape 1 and the second carriertape 2 shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the worker peels the cover film 19 offthe upper surface of the base film 15 as shown in FIG. 9. As the lowersurface of cover film 19 is easily removable type, the cover film 19 canbe smoothly removed off while the first and second bonding tapes 17 and18 firmly adhere and remains on the upper surface of the base film 15.In this condition, as shown in FIG. 10, the worker places the terminalend of the first carrier tape 1 on the first bonding tape 17 so that onelongitudinal side of the first carrier tape 1 is brought into contactwith the reference band 16 along the reference face 16 a. Then, theworker adjusts the position of the first carrier tape 1 in thelongitudinal direction so that the feed holes 8 agree with the feed holemarks 21. After finishing the adjustment of first carrier tape 1, theworker finalizes the position of first carrier tape 1 and firmly adheresthe first carrier tape 1 on the first bonding tape 17. In this case, theworker adjusts direction of the first carrier tape 1 in such a mannerthat one side of the terminal edge covered by the top tape 7 is faceddown and bonded first on the first bonding tape 17.

[0072] From this condition, the worker places the second carrier tape 2along the reference face 16 a of reference band 16 so that the leadingedge of second carrier 2 just follows the trailing edge of first carriertape 1 as shown in FIG. 11. The wavy cut edge of the second carrier tape2 just fits to the wavy cut edge of the first carrier tape 1. In thiscase, the worker adjust the direction of the second carrier tape 2 insuch a manner that one side of the leading edge covered by the top tape7 is faced down and bonded first on the first bonding tape 17.

[0073] Next, the worker folds the base film 15 along the folding line 20as shown in FIG. 12. The upper surface of the second bonding tape 18 isbrought into contact with the upper surfaces of the first and secondcarrier tapes 1 and 2 which are opposed to the surfaces covered by thetop tape 7, as shown in FIG. 13. Then, the worker depresses the foldedbase film 15 by fingers so that the first and second bonding tapes 17and 18 firmly adhere on the first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2. Asdescribed above, the connection of first and second bonding tapes 17 and18 to the base film 15 is maintained by the weak adhesive layer coatedon the surface of base film 15. Then, the worker releases the depressionforce from the base film 15 and peels the base film 15 off the secondbonding tape 18 until the half of the base film 15 opens back along thefolding line 20, as shown in FIG. 14. In this condition, the secondbonding tape 18 remains on the first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2.Subsequently, the worker pulls the base film 15 downward to peel theremaining half of the base film 15 off the first bonding tape 17 locatedon the bottom the first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2. Thus, the basefilm 15 is completely removed from the first and second carrier tapes 1and 2, leaving an assembly of the first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2serially connected by means of the second bonding tape 18 adhered on onesurface thereof as shown in FIG. 15 as well as by means of the firstbonding tape 17 adhered on the opposite surface thereof via the top tape7 as shown in FIG. 16.

[0074] In this manner, the trailing edge of first carrier tape 1 isadequately connected to the leading edge of second carrier tape 2. Thefirst bonding tape 17 is adhered on the upper surface of the first andsecond carrier tapes 1 and 2 via the top tape 7, while the secondbonding tape 18 is adhered on the lower surface of the first and secondcarrier tapes 1 and 2. This arrangement ensures the bonding strength ofthe joint portion between the first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2,thereby realizing reliable connection between the first and secondcarrier tapes 1 and 2.

[0075] Furthermore, after completing the positioning of first and secondcarrier tapes 1 and 2, the worker commences the connecting operation offirst and second carrier tapes 1 and 2 from one side (i.e., uppersurface) where the top tape 7 is provided. Thus, the connection of toptape 7 can be accurately performed. After accomplishing the connectingoperation of first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2, the parts on theserially connected first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2 are conveyedto the parts mounting apparatus. During the parts mounting operation,the top tape 7 located at the connecting portion can be continuously andsmoothly peeled off. Thus, this embodiment can stabilize the partsfeeding operation for the parts mounting apparatus.

[0076] The second bonding tape 18 can be omitted if the first bondingtape 17 by alone can assure a strong bonding strength for the top tape 7and the first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2 and when the firstbonding tape 17 can assure a stable peeling operation of top tape 7.

[0077] Furthermore, as described above, the connecting operation of thefirst and second carrier tapes 1 and 2 is performed under the conditionwhere their feed holes 8 completely agree with each other at theconnecting portion. This assures that the first and second carrier tapes1 and 2 can smoothly advance when their connecting portion passes in theparts mounting apparatus.

[0078] As described above, the first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2are integrated at their upper and lower surfaces by means of the bondingtapes 17 and 18 adhered thereon. Hereinafter, the connecting member 14will be explained in more detail. The reference band 16 shown in FIGS. 5to 8 has a color different from that of the base film 15. Morespecifically, the base film 15 is transparent, while the color ofreference band 16 is selected from black, red, blue, yellow, green,white, or the like. Using the colored reference band 16 is effective tohighlight or emphasize the reference band 16 in contrast with thetransparent base film 15. Hence, the worker can easily accomplish thepositioning operation of first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2 bysimply aligning the first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2 along thestraight reference face 16 a of reference band 16. The connectingoperation of first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2 can be easilyaccomplished.

[0079] Furthermore, using the transparent base film 15 allows the workerto visually confirm the connecting condition between the leading edge ofsecond carrier tape 2 and the trailing edge of first carrier tape 1 orvisually confirm the bonding condition between the bonding tapes 17 and18 and the carrier tapes. Thus, the worker can surely and correctlyconnect the first carrier tape 1 and the second carrier tape 2.

[0080] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment, thebonding tapes 17 and 18 are differentiated by color (e.g., blue) fromthe first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2 or its top tape 7. Thus, itis easy to identify the connecting portion of the carrier tapes 1 and 2after they are connected.

[0081] It is also preferable that the bonding tapes 17 and 18 aretransparent. The worker can surely confirm the presence of any part 6remaining in the carrying hole 5 at the connecting portion after thecarrier tapes 1 and 2 are connected.

[0082] Furthermore, it is preferable that the bonding tapes 17 and 18are semitransparent. The worker can easily identify the connectingportion of the first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2 and confirm thepresence of any part 6 remaining in the carrying hole 5 at theconnecting portion.

[0083] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 16, the first bonding tape 17 (orthe second bonding tape 18) has a transverse width narrower (forexample, 90% or less) than that of the top tape 7 provided on the firstand second carrier tapes 1 and 2. When the trailing edge of firstcarrier tape 1 is connected to the leading edge of second carrier tape2, the first bonding tape 17 (or the second bonding tape 18) is notbonded to a region other than the top tape 7. Thus, the worker cansmoothly peel off the top tape 7 when the parts 6 are fed to the partmounting apparatus.

[0084] In some cases, the first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2 may bedeformed in a zigzag fashion with respect to its longitudinal axis.According to JISC0806 “Taping of Electronic parts (surface mountingparts)”, such a deformation must be suppressed within 1 mm per thelength 100 mm. Hence, restricting the transverse width of the firstbonding tape 17 (or the second bonding tape 18) to be 90% or less makesit possible to surely prevent the first bonding tape 17 (or the secondbonding tape 18) from adhering on a region other than the top tape 7.

[0085] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 8, a predetermined gap 15 a isprovided between the reference band 16 and one longitudinal side of thebase film 15. When the reference band 16 is bonded on the upper surfaceof base film 15 by adhesive, the gap 15 a gives a marginal space forallowing the excessive adhesive to leak from the underneath of referenceband 16 without overflowing the base film. Thus, the worker can apply asufficient amount of adhesive onto the designated surface area of basefilm 15 beforehand without hesitating failure in application ofadhesive. Bonding of the reference band 16 to the base film 5 can beensured.

[0086] The distance from the folding line 20 to the reference face 16 aof reference band 16 is longer than the distance from the folding line20 to the opposite side 16 b of base film 15. This arrangement furtherimproves the workability by the following reason. When the base film 15is folded along the folding line 20 as shown in FIG. 13, the oppositeside 16 b of base film 15 does not reach the reference face 16 a. Inother words, the folded part of base film 15 does not overlap with thereference band 16. The worker can firmly depress the first and secondbonding tapes 17 and 18 to the first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2from both of the upper and lower sides, thereby ensuring the bonding ofthe first and second bonding tapes 17 and 18 to the first and secondcarrier tapes 1 and 2. To adequately accomplish this operation, it ispreferable that the base film 15 is transparent.

[0087] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 11, the trailing edge of first carriertape 1 and the leading edge of second carrier tape 2 are cut into thewavy shape. The worker is only required to simply couple the leadingedge of second carrier tape 2 with the trailing edge of first carriertape 1 along the wavy cut faces. This makes it possible to correctlyadjust the position of the leading edge of second carrier tape 2 withrespect to the trailing edge of first carrier tape 1 without causing anydislocation in the transverse direction. As shown in FIG. 10, an edgemark 15 b is provided at a longitudinal center of the base film 15 toindicate a portion corresponding to the wavy cut faces of the carriertapes. The worker can easily perform the connecting operation of thefirst and second carrier tapes 1 and 2 with reference to this edge mark15 b. Namely, the worker connects the first and second carrier tapes 1and 2 at the longitudinal center of the base film 15. Each of first andsecond bonding tapes 17 and 18 can span the first and second carriertapes 1 and 2 symmetrically. The connection of these two carrier tapesis improved and stable. The connecting operation can be performedadequately.

[0088] Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the cover film 19overhangs from the opposite side 16 b of base film 15. This allows theworker to pick the protruding edge of the cover film 19 so that thecover film 19 can be easily peeled off the base film 15.

[0089] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 7, the reference band 16 is thickerthan the cover film 19. This allows the worker to easily recognize theposition of reference band 16 when the worker holds the connectingmember 14. The worker grips the reference band 16 and peels off thecover film 19. The workability can be improved.

[0090] The connecting member 14 of the above-described embodiment, asshown in FIG. 8, has a rectangular shape of 26 mm×40 mm. All of thereference band 16, the base film 15, the first and second bonding tapes17 and 18, and the cover film 19 have the same longitudinal length. Thisfacilitates the manufacturing of connecting members because eachconnecting member 14 can be easily obtained by cutting band-like unitedmaterials at predetermined intervals.

[0091] Furthermore, it is preferable that the longitudinal size ofconnecting member 14 is in the range from 20 mm to 80 mm. Especially,the base film 15 having a longitudinal size not shorter than 20 mm isdefinitely necessary for the worker to hold the base film 15 and firstand second carrier tapes 1 and 2 firmly by right and left hands.Workability in connecting two carrier tapes 1 and 2 can be improved.

[0092] Furthermore, restricting a longitudinal size of bonding tapes 17and 18 is effective to facilitate the connecting operation. If thelength of boding tapes 17 and 18 is excessively long, the worker willfeel difficulty in correctly connecting the terminal edge of firstcarrier tape 1 to the leading edge of second carrier tape 2. However, 80mm or less is an adequate length for the worker to hold two carriertapes straight at the connecting portion during the connectingoperation. The connecting operation can be stabilized.

[0093] In the foregoing description, the cutting tool 9 is explained ashaving two wavy cutting blades 10 and 11 to cut the first and secondcarrier tapes 1 and 2. However, it is also possible to use anothercutting tool with a pair of concave and convex cutting blades. This willalso improve the wokability in cutting the trailing edge of firstcarrier tape 1 and the leading edge of second carrier tape 2 withoutcausing any dislocation in the transverse direction.

[0094] When the first and second carrier tapes 1 and 2 are cut at theiredges, the top tape 7 is cut into a single wavy shape as shown in FIG.4. More specifically, a downstream top tape 7 positioned on the leadingedge of second carrier tape 2 is cut into a single mount shape while anupstream top tape 7 positioned on the trailing edge of first carriertape 1 is cut into a single valley shape. The cut edge of downstream toptape 7 has a pinnacle protruding at its center toward the upstream sideand is just engageable with the cut edge of upstream top tape 7. It isalso possible to configure the downstream top tape 7 positioned on theleading edge of second carrier tape 2 into a single convex shapeprotruding toward the upstream side. In this case, it is preferable thata pinnacle of the convex shape is positioned at the center of the toptape 7.

[0095] In this manner, the cut shape of the top tape 7 is configuredinto a single convex or mount shape at the connecting portion of thefirst and second carrier tapes 1 and 2. This is effective to prevent thecut edge of top tape 7 from being winkled or broken due to its thinnesswhen the top tape 7 is made of a polyester having the thickness of 50 μmto 80 μm. The connection between first and second carrier tapes becomesstable.

[0096] Furthermore, configuring the cut shape of the downstream top tape7 into a convex or mount shape protruding toward the upstream top tape 7is helpful for the worker to peel off the upstream and downstream toptapes 7 serially connected by means of the first bonding tape 17 (or thesecond bonding tape 18) at the connecting portion during the mountingoperation.

[0097] Furthermore, providing the pinnacle of a convex or mount cut faceat the center of the downstream top tape 7 is helpful for the worker topeel-off the top tape 7 on the second carrier tape 2 smoothly.

[0098] It is also possible to modify the first and second carrier tapes1 and 2 so as to have deeply embossed carrying holes 22 as shown in FIG.17. In this case, the upper surface of first carrier tape 1 covered by atop tape 23 is faced down on the first bonding tape 17 as shown in FIG.18. When the base film 15 is folded, the second bonding tape 18 adhereson an embossed bottom portion 24. Although the bonding strength of thesecond bonding tape 18 may be weakened due to the deeply deformed shapeof embossed bottom portion 24, the first bonding tape 17 give asufficient bonding strength.

[0099] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 19, it is preferable to provideidentification marks 25 on the surface of first bonding tape 17 (or thesecond bonding tape 18). The identification marks 25, arrayed in thelongitudinal direction of the bonding tape, is detectable by anappropriate sensor equipped in the parts mounting apparatus. Thus, theworker can easily find the connecting portion. The number or color ofidentification marks 25 can changed to add various information. Forexample, the identification marks 25 can be used as a sign or partitionfor changing the kind of parts 6 carried on the carrier tape.

[0100] The shape of each identification mark 25 is not limited to around one, and therefore can be changed to other shape, such as arectangle one, a triangular one, or a bar code. It is also possible tochange the lower or shape of the first bonding tape 17 (or the secondbonding tape 18) so that the bonding tape can be used as a sort ofidentification mark.

[0101] As described above, the present invention provides a connectingmember used for serially connecting two carrier tapes, comprising a basefilm, a belt-like reference band substantially fixed on the base film, abonding tape adhering on the base film, and a cover film covering thebonding tape, wherein a straight reference face is provided on alongitudinal side of the reference band closely to the bonding tape.According to the connecting member of this invention, a worker can aligna first carrier tape and a second carrier tape serially along thereference face of the reference band, and connects leading and trailingedges of the first and second carrier tapes with the bonding tape. Thus,it becomes possible to easily perform the connecting operation withoutcausing any dislocation or inclination between the first and secondcarrier tapes.

What is claimed is:
 1. A connecting member used for serially connectingtwo carrier tapes, comprising: a base film; a belt-like reference bandsubstantially fixed on said base film; a bonding tape adhering on saidbase film; and a cover film covering said bonding tape, wherein astraight reference face is provided on a longitudinal side of saidreference band closely to said bonding tape.
 2. The connecting memberused for serially connecting two carrier tapes in accordance with claim1, wherein said base film is configured into a rectangular shape, andsaid reference band is positioned in parallel with one side of said basefilm.
 3. The connecting member used for serially connecting two carriertapes in accordance with claim 1, wherein the color of said referenceband is different from that of said base film.
 4. The connecting memberused for serially connecting two carrier tapes in accordance with claim1, wherein said base film is transparent.
 5. The connecting member usedfor serially connecting two carrier tapes in accordance with claim 4,wherein the color of said reference band is selected from the groupconsisting of black, red, blue, yellow, green, and white.
 6. Theconnecting member used for serially connecting two carrier tapes inaccordance with claim 1, wherein said reference band is thicker thansaid cover film.
 7. The connecting member used for serially connectingtwo carrier tapes in accordance with claim 1, wherein a plurality offeed hole marks are provided between said reference band and saidbonding tape on said base film, and said feed hole marks are arrayed atpredetermined intervals so as to agree with feed holes of each carriertape.
 8. The connecting member used for serially connecting two carriertapes in accordance with claim 1, wherein an edge mark is provided at alongitudinal center of said base film to indicate a portioncorresponding to a cut face of each carrier tape.
 9. The connectingmember used for serially connecting two carrier tapes in accordance withclaim 1, wherein a folding line is provided between two bonding tapes onsaid base film, and said folding line is parallel to said reference faceof said reference band.
 10. The connecting member used for seriallyconnecting two carrier tapes in accordance with claim 9, wherein saidbase film is configured into a rectangular shape, and a distance fromsaid folding line to said reference face of reference band located nearone side of said base film is longer than a distance from said foldingline to an opposite side of said base film.
 11. The connecting memberused for serially connecting two carrier tapes in accordance with claim2, wherein a predetermined gap is provided between said reference bandand one side of said base film.
 12. The connecting member used forserially connecting two carrier tapes in accordance with claim 2,wherein said cove film overhangs from an opposite side of said base filmfar from said reference band.
 13. The connecting member used forserially connecting two carrier tapes in accordance with claim 1,wherein said base film and said bonding tape have the same size in alongitudinal direction of said reference band.
 14. The connecting memberused for serially connecting two carrier tapes in accordance with claim1, wherein said base film and said reference band have the same size ina longitudinal direction of said reference band.
 15. The connectingmember used for serially connecting two carrier tapes in accordance withclaim 1, wherein said base film has a size not shorter than 20 mm in alongitudinal direction of said reference band.
 16. The connecting memberused for serially connecting two carrier tapes in accordance with claim1, wherein said bonding tape has a size not longer than 80 mm in alongitudinal direction of said reference band.
 17. The connecting memberused for serially connecting two carrier tapes in accordance with claim1, wherein a plurality of carrying holes are provided on said carriertape for accommodating parts, a top tape covers said carrying holes, anda transverse width of said bonding tape is narrower than that of saidtop tape.
 18. The connecting member used for serially connecting twocarrier tapes in accordance with claim 17, wherein the transverse widthof said bonding tape is not larger than 90% of the transverse width ofsaid top tape.
 19. The connecting member used for serially connectingtwo carrier tapes in accordance with claim 17, wherein the color of saidbonding tape is different from that of said carrier tape or said toptape.
 20. The connecting member used for serially connecting two carriertapes in accordance with claim 19, wherein said bonding tape issemitransparent.
 21. The connecting member used for serially connectingtwo carrier tapes in accordance with claim 17, wherein said bonding tapeis transparent.
 22. A method for serially connecting two carrier tapeswith a connecting member, said connecting member comprising: a basefilm; a belt-like reference band substantially fixed on said base film;a bonding tape adhering on said base film; and a cover film coveringsaid bonding tape, wherein a straight reference face is provided on alongitudinal side of said reference band closely to said bonding tape,said method comprising the steps of: peeling the cover film off saidbase film; positioning an edge portion of a first carrier tape on saidbase film in such a manner that said first carrier tape is brought intocontact with said reference band along the reference face; bonding theedge portion of said first carrier tape to the bonding tape; positioningan edge portion of a second carrier tape on said base film in such amanner that said second carrier tape is brought into contact with saidreference band along the reference face and is also brought into contactwith said first carrier tape along their edge portions; bonding the edgeportion of said second carrier tape to the bonding tape; and removing anassembly of said first and second carrier tapes serially connected bysaid bonding tape from said base film.
 23. A method for seriallyconnecting two carrier tapes with a connecting member, said connectingmember comprising: a base film; a belt-like reference band substantiallyfixed on said base film; a bonding tape adhering on said base film; anda cover film covering said bonding tape, wherein a straight referenceface is provided on a longitudinal side of said reference band closelyto said bonding tape, a plurality of feed hole marks are providedbetween said reference band and said bonding tape on said base film, andsaid feed hole marks are arrayed at predetermined intervals so as toagree with feed holes of each carrier tape, said method comprising thesteps of: peeling the cover film off said base film; positioning an edgeportion of a first carrier tape on said base film in such a manner thatsaid first carrier tape is brought into contact with said reference bandalong the reference face and also the position of feed holes of saidfirst carrier tape agrees with the feed hole marks of said base film;bonding the edge portion of said first carrier tape to the bonding tape;positioning an edge portion of a second carrier tape on said base filmin such a manner that said second carrier tape is brought into contactwith said reference band along the reference face and is also broughtinto contact with said first carrier tape along their edge portions;bonding the edge portion of said second carrier tape to the bondingtape; and removing an assembly of said first and second carrier tapesserially connected by said bonding tape from said base film.
 24. Amethod for serially connecting two carrier tapes with a connectingmember, said connecting member comprising: a base film; a belt-likereference band substantially fixed on said base film; a bonding tapeadhering on said base film; and a cover film covering said bonding tape,wherein a straight reference face is provided on a longitudinal side ofsaid reference band closely to said bonding tape, and an edge mark isprovided at a longitudinal center of said base film to indicate aportion corresponding to a cut face of each carrier tape, said methodcomprising the steps of: peeling the cover film off said base film;positioning an edge portion of a first carrier tape on said base film insuch a manner that said first carrier tape is brought into contact withsaid reference band along the reference face and also the position ofsaid edge portion of said first carrier tape agrees with said edge markof said base film; bonding the edge portion of said first carrier tapeto the bonding tape; positioning an edge portion of a second carriertape on said base film in such a manner that said second carrier tape isbrought into contact with said reference band along the reference faceand is also brought into contact with said first carrier tape alongtheir edge portions; bonding the edge portion of said second carriertape to the bonding tape; and removing an assembly of said first andsecond carrier tapes serially connected by said bonding tape from saidbase film.
 25. The carrier tape connecting method in accordance withclaim 22, wherein each of said first and second carrier tapes has aplurality of carrying holes for accommodating parts and a top tapecovering said carrying holes, and the edge portions of said first andsecond carrier tapes are connected to said bonding tape via said toptape.
 26. A method for serially connecting two carrier tapes with aconnecting member, said connecting member comprising: a base film; abelt-like reference band substantially fixed on said base film; firstand second bonding tapes adhering on said base film; and a cover filmcovering said first and second bonding tapes, wherein a straightreference face is provided on a longitudinal side of said reference bandclosely to said bonding tapes, a folding line is provided between saidfirst and second bonding tapes on said base film, and said folding lineis parallel to said reference face of said reference band, said methodcomprising the steps of: peeling the cover film off said base film;positioning an edge portion of a first carrier tape on said base film insuch a manner that said first carrier tape is brought into contact withsaid reference band along the reference face; bonding one surface of theedge portion of said first carrier tape to the first bonding tapelocated between said folding line and said reference band; positioningan edge portion of a second carrier tape on said base film in such amanner that said second carrier tape is brought into contact with saidreference band along the reference face and is also brought into contactwith said first carrier tape along their edge portions; bonding onesurface of the edge portion of said second carrier tape to said firstbonding tape; folding said base film along said folding line so that thesecond bonding tape located between said folding line and the other endof said base film is adhered on opposite surfaces of the edge portionsof said first and second carrier tapes; and removing an assembly of saidfirst and second carrier tapes serially connected by said first andsecond bonding tapes from said base film.
 27. The carrier tapeconnecting method in accordance with claim 26, wherein each of saidfirst and second carrier tapes has a plurality of carrying holes foraccommodating parts and a top tape covering said carrying holes, and theedge portions of said first and second carrier tapes are first connectedto said first bonding tape via said top tape and then connected to saidsecond bonding tape.
 28. The carrier tape connecting method inaccordance with claim 22, further comprising the step of cutting theedge portions of said first and second carrier tapes into convex andconcave shapes just fitting to each other, before said edge portions ofsaid first and second carrier tapes are connected with said connectingmember.
 29. The carrier tape connecting method in accordance with claim22, further comprising the step of cutting the edge portions of saidfirst and second carrier tapes into wavy shapes just fitting to eachother, before said edge portions of said first and second carrier tapesare connected with said connecting member.
 30. The carrier tapeconnecting method in accordance with claim 28, wherein the edge portionsof said first and second carrier tapes are cut with a cutting toolhaving cutting blades corresponding to said convex and concave shapes.31. The carrier tape connecting method in accordance with claim 30,wherein positioning pins, engageable with said feed holes of saidcarrier tapes, are provided on one cutting blade of said cutting tool.32. The carrier tape connecting method in accordance with claim 31,wherein each of said first and second carrier tapes has a plurality ofcarrying holes for accommodating parts and a top tape covering saidcarrying holes, and said top tape is cut into convex and concave shapesor into wavy shapes at the edge portions of said carrier tapes.
 33. Thecarrier tape connecting method in accordance with claim 32, wherein thetop tape provided on a leading edge of a downstream carrier tape is cutinto a convex shape protruding toward a trailing edge of an upstreamcarrier tape.
 34. The carrier tape connecting method in accordance withclaim 33, wherein said convex shape has a pinnacle at substantially thecenter of said top tape provided on the leading edge of the downstreamcarrier tape.